Former Medina Mayor James Roberts dies

MEDINA Members of the administration and City Council expressed their condolences during Monday night’s meeting at the passing of former Mayor James Roberts.

Mayor Roberts passed away late Sunday night at age 72. He had served as mayor for three terms, from 1990 to 2001.

“(Jim) was very instrumental in expanding our city parks,” said Mayor Dennis Hanwell. “He had a very large heart for doing what he felt was best for the community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

“Council’s prayers go out to his family also,” added Council President John Coyne.

Police Chief Patrick Berarducci also spoke warmly of his memories of the former mayor.

“I have fond memories of him from when I was a young man and new to Medina and my children were young,” Berarducci said. “And he used to come to the ballpark and cook hotdogs for the kids on Saturdays . . . He just always seemed to really enjoy being the mayor. He enjoyed the kids; he enjoyed the community.”

Ward 3 Councilman Mark Kolesar also shared a personal memory of the late mayor.

“I distinctly remember back in high school when he came out and spoke to our senior class . . . He truly had a passion for our city and enjoyed his job; enjoyed dealing with the public. I feel he made a great impact on this community and he will be sadly missed,” Kolesar said.

According to obituary information from Carlson Funeral Homes, Mayor Roberts was born July 3, 1940 in He was born July 3, 1940 in Shelbyville, Ill. He served with the 82nd Airborne Unit. He was employed with BF Goodrich as Petroleum National Sales Manager. He is survived by his sons, Paul and John, grandchildren; Braelyn and Ayla, sister, Margaret Mary (George) Congrave and his former wife Carol. Preceding him in death were his parents and son James Scott Roberts III.

Memorial visitation will be held from noon to 1:15 p.m. March 4, at Carlson Funeral Home 3477 Medina Road (Rt. 18 & River Styx Rd.) Medina. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1:15 p.m.

Interment of Cremains will be in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, Rittman.

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